Homes & Gardens

Simon Friend of Red Earth Developments, owner of the landmark redevelopment of The Yealm, knows a thing or two about Wyvern – a winged, two-legged Chimera dragon with a barbed tail. He commissioned local historical monuments and buildings restoration specialist, Guy Marsh based in Chulmleigh, to repair six 100-year old dragons to reinstate them on the roof in a ‘topping out’ ceremony at the former Yealm Hotel situated in the heart of the picturesque twin riverside villages of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo. He said: “The dragons are earthenware terracotta and likely date from when the hotel...

As the summer months approach , many of us are finishing off the spring cleaning and getting ready to enjoy our holidays. Before leaving your home, though, it’s important to take care of regular summer maintenance to avoid any issues in the autumn, especially considering that construction and repair costs are on the rise in Exeter and throughout the UK. Here are some of the top things that you should be sure to include in your home maintenance to-do list in the coming months.

Clean the Gutters

Even though the leaves aren’t falling yet, it’s a good idea to grab the ladder...

This year will once again see Hospiscare teaming up with local residents who are gladly opening their gardens in support of what is now a favourite staple in the charity’s calendar. This year, Hospiscare Open Gardens is entering its fifteenth year and to date has raised the awe inspiring amount of £227,000. This is thanks to the gardeners who work tirelessly caring for their outdoor spaces, the visitors who turn out in force to marvel at these treasured lands and the friends, family and volunteers who come together to make it all possible.

2018 was a record breaking year for the...

Tenants of private rented buildings have various rights and responsibilities under the UK law. As a tenant, it is important to know your rights and what the landlord can rightfully do in different situations. For instance, your landlord should ensure the building structure is well maintained. Boilers, water works, electricity, air conditioners and drainage systems should also be working efficiently. You can always sue the landlord if they fail to meet their end of the contract or if they harass and jeopardize your legal entitlements. Similarly, landlords can sue you for failing to meet...